The Collingwood X-Factor That AFL Legends Say Could Determine Premiership Success

Legendary AFL player Nathan Brown has suggested that Collingwood might benefit from placing their star wildcard, Jordan De Goey, on the sidelines for a month. This period could be used to ensure he returns to full fitness ahead of the finals in September.

The premiership-winning mid-forward has had a turbulent start to the season, with injury problems over the past year potentially contributing to his inconsistent form.

Having missed significant time in 2024 due to groin and abdominal issues, he also suffered a knee bone bruise during the pre-season, and has already had one rest this year.

In a recent clash against Geelong in round eight, De Goey only managed nine disposals and failed to score, prompting Brown to recommend a short pre-season for him.

“He has the potential to be the difference-maker in securing this premiership,” Brown stated on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.

“It appears he’s not at peak fitness. I’ve never seen him look as flat as he did on Saturday night. He’s lacking the zip we’re accustomed to seeing. His pre-season was anything but smooth.

“He’s missing that explosive speed they relied on in the past. He was caught a lot and didn’t contribute significantly to the game.

“In the final quarter, they tried moving him into the centre, but he struggled to keep up with Bailey Smith, which was a mismatched contest considering Smith’s pace.”

“At full tilt, De Goey is one of my favourite players to watch. The De Goey of 2018 was untouchable, and he was unplayable again during the 2023 finals.

“Right now, can you really get fit while playing in the condition he’s in? He seems to be carrying an injury. Should they consider a four to six-week block where De Goey doesn’t play but instead concentrates on intense training, getting fit for the end-of-year run and unleashing him for the finals?”

“He doesn’t need to prove himself anymore; he’s already a premiership player. His full fitness could decide whether Collingwood lifts the trophy or not.

“It’s possible he might find his form later in the season, but I’d prefer to see him fresh and in peak condition, as right now he seems burdened and restricted in his movement.”

Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd believes some of De Goey’s struggles may stem from inadequate standards in his training outside of official contact hours.

“Wouldn’t it be interesting to know how he’s training as a professional 24/7? Look at Marcus Bontempelli; he came back from six weeks out and looked like he hadn’t missed a beat,” Lloyd remarked.

“Does De Goey need a break? Is it because he’s not training at the elite standard?”

Collingwood faces a demanding five-day turnaround as they prepare to take on Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Thursday night, followed by a match against Adelaide at the MCG the following week.